A Kansas sheriff has raised safety concerns regarding a planned closure of I-70 in early September.
On September 4 at 4 a.m., the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will completely close a section of I-70 for about 24 hours to allow workers to dismantle the 150 Avenue bridge over the highway in Trego County.
The bridge has been shut down since March 2024 after it was repeatedly struck by vehicles carrying loads that were too tall.
The affected portions of I-70 will include:
- Westbound lanes from Exits 115 to 128 (Collyer to WaKeeney)
- Eastbound lanes from Exits 95 to 120 (Grainfield to Voda Road)
KDOT will set up a detour directing drivers to use K-23, U.S. 24, and U.S. 283.
The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) has voiced concerns about diverting traffic from I-70 through small towns during the closure.
SCSO specifically highlighted the following issues with KDOT’s closure and detour plans:
- K-23 Issues: K-23 is a narrow road with no shoulders and many hills, making it unsuitable for heavy traffic.
- Impact on Businesses: The detour will likely create congestion in Hoxie’s business district and affect businesses along U24 on Oak Avenue.
- School Safety: Concerns were raised about children crossing streets, and the need for staff at crossings on Oak and Main Street. Fortunately, USD 412 is coordinating with the sheriff’s office to close school on this day.
- Emergency Response Delays: The anticipated congestion, particularly at the K-23/U24 intersection (where KDOT will station traffic control staff), may delay emergency response times and travel.
- Restrictions on Wide Loads: Wide loads will not be permitted to travel north or south (south of Hoxie) on K-23 on September 4.
